Erev Pesach: Finding Freedom and Joy in Mixed Feelings (2020)

Good morning, everyone. You might be wondering how I have time to send a message on Erev Pesach (Passover Eve), a day usually filled with frantic preparations. This year, our household is quieter, and the unique circumstances have given us time for reflection, for looking at things with a fresh perspective. As we near the moment of stopping chametz and transitioning fully into Pesach, I wanted to share some food for thought.

For us, Yidden (Jews), life is a constant intertwining of sadness and joy. We've all endured challenging times recently, and unsettling events continue to unfold. Naturally, as human beings, we question and wonder. But then, we remember: Pesach is coming! Pesach is Z'man Cheiruteinu – the time of our freedom.

Freedom Amidst Mixed Feelings

Freedom means not only physical liberation, but also spiritual freedom – the ability to serve Hashem without doubts, to confidently do what is right. Yet, Pesach itself is steeped in these mixed feelings:

• Matzah: It is Lechem Oni, the "bread of poverty," eaten during slavery. Simultaneously, it is Lechem Geulah, the "bread of freedom," the bread over which we ask questions, seeking answers. These two extremes are perfectly combined.

• Wine: Yayin Yesamach Levav Enosh – "Wine gladdens the heart of man." It is a symbol of joy. Yet, wine's color also reminds us of blood, evoking the centuries of blood libels and persecutions suffered by our people around Pesach time.

Despite these dualities, as we enter Pesach, we must declare: This is Z'man Cheiruteinu! This is a time when we will force ourselves to be happy.

"Shir HaShirim": Hashem's Unconditional Love

On this Shabbos, we read Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs), a profound song of love expressing our deepest connection to Hashem. We tell Hashem: "Shchorani V'Navah Ani" – "I am perhaps blackened, tanned by the sun, but I am beautiful in Your eyes."

• The Midrash explains: We all face challenges, moments where we fall short of Hashem's expectations, or where we lack self-esteem, feeling "Shchorah" – low, insignificant compared to the great Tzadikim.

• But Hashem reassures us: "Navah Ani" – "You are beautiful in My eyes." Hashem is our loving Father. He loves each of us unconditionally, no matter our circumstances, no matter what we've been through, even if we have stumbled. We can always pick ourselves up.

From Slavery to Redemption: Our Pesach Journey

With Pesach, we begin Sefirat HaOmer, the countdown to Matan Torah (the Giving of the Torah). This is our journey of self-elevation. We will eat the Matzah, we will celebrate, and crucially, we will conclude our Seder with Nirtzah, the song of praise, Hallel. We will thank Hashem, count our blessings, and affirm that everything that has transpired has led us to this moment.

When we open the door for Eliyahu HaNavi, we declare "Shefoch Chamat'cha" – "Pour out Your wrath." Eliyahu is there, together with Mashiach, waiting to come. If each of us makes our special effort, it is in our power to bring Mashiach. It is in our power to tell Hashem, "We are ready now. We are doing our utmost. We are lifting ourselves up."

If we do this, this Pesach will truly be Z'man Cheiruteinu – a time of freedom, a time of joy, and a time of great Nechamah (comfort/consolation) for each of us.

Have a wonderful, wonderful Yom Tov! Relax and enjoy after all the hard work and stress of these last days. Most importantly, remember: It is Yom Tov. We must put ourselves into an atmosphere of joy. It is in our power to do so, whatever the circumstances, however we have prepared this year. This year is different because this year, we will have the right priorities at our Seder night.

Chag Kasher V'Sameach! With all my love from Antwerp.